Mirror Therapy Versus Action Observation Therapy on Upper Limb Motor Function, Functional Independence, and Quality Oflife Among Chronic Stroke Patients

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of Mirror Therapy (MT) and Action Observation Therapy (AOT) on upper limb motor function, functional independence, and health-related quality of life in individuals with chronic stroke. Stroke-related upper limb impairment remains a major cause of long-term disability and reduced independence. Both MT and AOT are neurocognitive rehabilitation approaches based on activation of the mirror neuron system and promotion of neuroplasticity. Eligible participants with chronic stroke will be randomly allocated to either a Mirror Therapy group or an Action Observation Therapy group and will receive supervised interventions in addition to standard physiotherapy. Outcomes will be assessed using the Motor Evaluation Scale for Upper Extremity in Stroke Patients (MESUPES), Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), and Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36). The study seeks to determine the comparative effectiveness of these interventions for improving upper limb function, functional independence, and quality of life among chronic stroke survivors.